Orlando Pirates Prepare for Crucial Clash Against Mamelodi Sundowns
Orlando Pirates' assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi is aiming for a significant win against Mamelodi Sundowns in their highly anticipated Betway Premiership match at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday, which is sold out.
Kick-off is scheduled for 15:30, as Pirates look to upset the current league leaders.
The history between the Buccaneers and Sundowns is storied, with the teams meeting twice in the semifinals of the MTN8 this season. Both legs ended in 1-1 draws, but Pirates advanced victorious on penalties in the second leg. Their last league meeting occurred in March of the previous season, where Pirates claimed a 2-1 victory at FNB Stadium.
However, Pirates have had difficulty achieving success in away matches against Sundowns, with their last league victory dating back to 2018, where they won 3-1.
Since returning from the October FIFA international break, Pirates have participated in two PSL matches against Polokwane City in the league and Magesi in the Carling Knockout.
In contrast, Sundowns have not played since returning from the FIFA break, as their match against Sekhukhune United was postponed.
Sundowns currently sits atop the log with 21 points from 10 matches, while Pirates are in fourth place with 18 points from eight games. A win for Pirates would draw them level on points with Sundowns; however, Sundowns would remain at the top due to their superior goal difference.
Despite these standings, Ncikazi remains focused on ensuring optimal performance from his team. He expressed, “It’s another match that has got a value of three points, and we just have to look at our performance.”
He further stressed, “We have to apply ourselves correctly, then get to the motivation in our team. We do that, we perform, and it doesn’t matter what happens to the opponent, but it becomes more about us for the performance—and the value of three points will definitely come to us.”
The comments from the former Golden Arrows coach indicate a team intent on seizing control of their fate and securing a critical victory against their arch-rivals.
With both squads featuring talented players, Saturday’s match is set to deliver an exhilarating experience.
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